Page 243 - MDSL Final

FUTURE NAVY

CHAPTER 12

FUTURE NAVY

The military power has been identified as one of the key instruments
of national power in addition to diplomatic, information and economic
powers. Sri Lanka being an Island nation, maritime power takes leading
role in her military power for attainment of national interests through
the elements of national power. It will require in depth analysis on the
elements of national power within, in order to identify the strengths,
thus for selecting credible strategies. The importance of the Indian Ocean
and the strategic location of Sri Lanka is a critical factor for enabling
maritime strategies. The potential of Navy to display diplomacy and to
build effective and healthy relationships with other nations considers as
a vital factor. The volatility, uncertainties, complexities and ambiguities
persist in the existing environment is a critical area of concern in the
maritime domain. The importance of having common working strategy
for the future challenges, proactive approach and interoperability with
joint, multinational, multi- agency forces will be critically important.

Globalisation has inextricably linked the security and the prosperity
of Sri Lanka to the wider global community. Sri Lanka will necessarily
be a partner nation to the rest of the world for stability and security.
It will require continuous engagement with the regional countries.
Especially in the IOR, and to execute the classic role for which naval
forces are uniquely suited, in order to protect and sustain the global
system of independent network of trade, finance, information, law,
and governance. While considering the own strength and experience,
understanding the capabilities and capacities of major power in terms
of their power projection and forward deployment will be a significant
factor in diplomatic collaboration. It will be challenging and requires
careful planning for implementing diplomatic collaboration while
preserving sovereignty and independence of the country.

Threat perception will enumerate various existing security concerns that

To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea 223